A chemical compound formed when a chalcogen element bonds with a more metallic element, such as copper sulfide or iron telluride.
From 'chalcogen' plus '-ide,' the chemical suffix indicating binary compounds. This terminology emerged in the 19th century as chemists systematized inorganic nomenclature.
Chalcogenides are quietly revolutionizing technology—they're used in phase-change memory (like in DVDs), infrared cameras, and even solar panels. Some can switch between insulating and conducting states, making them perfect for smart devices.
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